The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Specialist Fifth Class Steve W. Storie, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty on 28 July 1970 while serving as an observer/gunner with Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, while conducting a visual air reconnaissance mission approximately eight kilometers east of Katum, Specialist Storie observed several enemy bunkers and tunnel entrances with signs indicating recent activity. After spraying the area with machine gun fire, Specialist Storie spotted and engaged a target. Immediately his fire was returned from ground positions while he continued to place suppressive fire upon the insurgents and mark their position with smoke grenades. His helicopter received numerous hits which damaged the controls and wounded the pilot. Specialist Storie attempted to regain control of the aircraft, but could only manage an upright landing. Once on the ground he administered first aid to the pilot, marked his position with smoke grenades and established a defensive position. Upon seeing a medical evacuation helicopter attempting a landing, Specialist Storie waved him away from the hostile area until the gunships laid down sufficient suppressive fire so it could land. When a crew member from the medical evacuation helicopter arrived, Specialist Storie helped him carry the wounded pilot to the awaiting helicopter. Specialist Fifth Class Storie’s gallantry in action was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.